2020 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Hear that dreaded squeal, grind, or feel a little less confident when you hit the brakes in your 2020 Honda Accord? It’s more than just an annoying sound; it’s your car telling you it’s time for some crucial maintenance. Your brakes are your most important safety system, and ignoring them is a gamble you never want to take.

Imagine tackling this essential job yourself. Not only will you save a significant chunk of change on shop labor, but you’ll also gain invaluable experience and the satisfaction of knowing your ride is stopping safely because *you* made it happen. At FatBoysOffroad, we empower enthusiasts like you to get hands-on with their vehicles.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of a 2020 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement. We’ll cover everything from gathering your tools to the critical post-installation checks, ensuring you achieve a professional, reliable outcome. Get ready to boost your mechanical prowess and enjoy peace of mind on the road!

Why Your 2020 Honda Accord Needs Rear Brake Pad Replacement (and Why DIY Matters)

Brake pads are wear items, meaning they are designed to gradually wear down over time. Ignoring worn pads can lead to serious safety hazards and more expensive repairs down the line. Understanding the signs and benefits of timely replacement is key.

Recognizing the Signs of Worn Rear Brake Pads

Your Accord usually gives you clear warnings when its rear brake pads are nearing the end of their life. Paying attention to these signals can prevent bigger headaches.

Squealing or Grinding Noises: Most pads have a metal wear indicator that creates a high-pitched squeal when the pads are low. A grinding sound means the pads are completely gone, and metal is rubbing on metal—this is urgent!
Reduced Braking Performance: If your Accord takes longer to stop or the brake pedal feels softer than usual, your pads might be compromised.
Vibrations: Pulsations or vibrations felt through the brake pedal can indicate warped rotors, often exacerbated by worn pads.
Visual Inspection: Look through your wheel spokes. If the pad material is thinner than a quarter-inch, it’s time for a change.

The Benefits of a Timely and Sustainable 2020 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Don’t wait until things get critical. Proactive maintenance pays off in multiple ways, and embracing sustainable practices adds another layer of benefit.

Enhanced Safety: Fresh pads restore your vehicle’s stopping power, crucial for accident avoidance and confident driving.
Prevent Costly Damage: Replacing pads before they wear through protects your brake rotors, calipers, and other expensive components from damage.
Improved Driving Experience: Say goodbye to annoying noises and enjoy smooth, quiet, and responsive braking.
Cost Savings: Doing it yourself saves a significant amount on labor costs, often hundreds of dollars.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Opt for reputable aftermarket pads made with less hazardous materials and ensure proper recycling of your old brake components. Many auto parts stores offer recycling programs for used pads and rotors.

Gathering Your Gear: Tools and Parts for Your 2020 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Preparation is half the battle. Before you even think about jacking up your Accord, make sure you have everything you need. This section covers the essential tools and parts for a successful and safe job.

Essential Tools for the Job

Having the right tools makes a significant difference in efficiency and safety. Don’t skimp on quality, especially for safety equipment.

Floor Jack and Jack Stands: Absolutely critical for safely lifting and supporting your vehicle. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Wheel Chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Lug Nut Wrench/Breaker Bar with 19mm Socket: For removing your wheels.
Ratchet and Socket Set: You’ll likely need 14mm and 17mm sockets for caliper bolts.
Caliper Compression Tool or Piston Retraction Tool: Essential for pushing the caliper piston back in. For the 2020 Accord’s electronic parking brake, this tool needs to be specific.
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Release Tool/Scan Tool: This is crucial for the 2020 Honda Accord. You CANNOT simply compress the piston without disengaging the EPB motor first. A compatible OBD-II scan tool with EPB service mode functionality is required.
Torque Wrench: For tightening lug nuts and caliper bolts to factory specifications. This prevents overtightening and undertightening, both of which can be dangerous.
Wire Brush: For cleaning caliper brackets and hub faces.
C-Clamp (optional): Can be used for compressing pistons on non-EPB calipers, but not recommended for the 2020 Accord rear.
Brake Cleaner: To clean new rotors and components.
Anti-Seize Lubricant: For lug studs and caliper slide pins.
High-Temperature Brake Grease: Specifically for lubricating caliper slide pins and the back of brake pads.
Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect your hands and eyes from brake dust and chemicals.

Selecting the Right Parts: Pads and Rotors

Choosing quality replacement parts is paramount for performance and longevity. Don’t cheap out on your brakes!

Rear Brake Pads: Ensure they are specifically for a 2020 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement. You’ll find ceramic, semi-metallic, and organic options. Ceramic pads are popular for quiet operation and low dust.
Brake Rotors (Optional but Recommended): While you *can* sometimes get away with just pads, it’s highly recommended to replace or resurface your rotors whenever you do pads. This ensures an even braking surface and prevents premature wear on your new pads. Measure rotor thickness against specifications if considering resurfacing. For most DIYers, simply replacing rotors is easier and safer.
Brake Hardware Kit: Often included with new pads, but if not, purchase one. These clips and shims are vital for proper pad movement and noise reduction.

The Step-by-Step Guide: How to Perform a 2020 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement Safely

This is where the rubber meets the road—or rather, the pad meets the rotor. Follow these detailed steps carefully for a safe and effective replacement.

Step 1: Safety First – Prepare Your Vehicle

Safety is non-negotiable. Always prioritize it above all else.

Park your Accord on a flat, level surface.
Engage the parking brake.
Place wheel chocks in front of the front wheels to prevent any movement.
Loosen the rear lug nuts slightly (about a quarter turn) while the car is still on the ground. This makes them easier to remove once lifted.
Using your floor jack, lift the rear of the vehicle.
Position jack stands securely under the vehicle’s frame or designated jack points. Lower the car onto the jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

Step 2: Disengage the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)

This is the most critical step for a 2020 Accord and where deep expertise comes in. Skipping this will damage your EPB motor.

Connect your compatible OBD-II scan tool to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
Navigate to the “Electronic Parking Brake” or “Brake Service Mode” function on your scan tool.
Follow the scan tool’s prompts to retract the rear caliper pistons. This will electronically unwind the EPB motor, allowing the piston to be compressed manually.
If you don’t have an EPB-capable scan tool, consult your Accord’s service manual for a manual override procedure (if one exists for your specific model year) or consider professional assistance. Do not proceed without properly disengaging the EPB.

Step 3: Remove the Caliper and Old Pads

Carefully disassemble the brake components.

Locate the two caliper guide pin bolts (usually 14mm) on the back of the caliper.
Using your ratchet, remove these two bolts. You might need to hold the guide pins with a wrench to prevent them from spinning.
Gently slide the caliper off the rotor. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose, as this can damage the hose. Use a bungee cord or wire to suspend it from the suspension coil spring or another sturdy point.
Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket. Note how they were oriented.
Inspect the caliper bracket. Remove the old brake hardware clips. Use a wire brush to clean any rust and brake dust from the bracket where the pads sit.

Step 4: Inspect and Replace Rotors (If Necessary)

A fresh rotor provides the best surface for new pads.

If you are replacing the rotors, remove the small Phillips head screw (sometimes two) that holds the rotor to the hub. It might be seized; use an impact driver if necessary.
Remove the old rotor. If it’s stuck, a few taps with a rubber mallet on the hat of the rotor can help loosen it.
Clean the hub face thoroughly with a wire brush to ensure the new rotor sits flush. Apply a thin layer of anti-seize to the hub face (not the studs).
Install the new rotor, aligning the screw holes, and secure it with the Phillips head screw(s). Clean the new rotor with brake cleaner to remove any factory anti-corrosion coating.

Step 5: Retract the Caliper Piston

This is where your caliper compression tool comes in.

Place your caliper compression tool onto the piston. For the 2020 Accord rear calipers, the piston needs to be rotated *and* compressed simultaneously due to the EPB mechanism. Many universal compression tools come with adapters for this.
Slowly and evenly compress the piston back into the caliper body until it’s flush. This creates space for the thicker new pads.
Keep an eye on the brake fluid reservoir. If it’s overfilled, fluid may overflow when the piston is compressed. Remove a small amount if necessary.

Step 6: Install New Brake Pads and Reassemble

The final steps before putting the wheel back on.

Install the new brake hardware clips into the caliper bracket. Apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake grease to the contact points where the pads slide.
Apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake grease to the back of the new brake pads (not the friction material!). This helps prevent squealing.
Install the new pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they slide freely.
Lubricate the caliper guide pins with fresh brake grease.
Carefully slide the caliper back over the new pads and rotor.
Reinstall the two caliper guide pin bolts. Torque these bolts to factory specifications (consult your owner’s manual or a service guide, typically around 23-25 lb-ft).

Step 7: Re-engage the Electronic Parking Brake and Final Checks

Don’t forget to reverse the EPB procedure.

Using your scan tool, follow the prompts to re-engage or “close” the electronic parking brake. This will set the piston correctly against the new pads.
Reinstall the wheel, hand-tightening the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle until the wheel just touches the ground, then torque the lug nuts in a star pattern to factory specifications (typically 80 lb-ft for a 2020 Honda Accord).
Lower the vehicle completely and remove the jack and jack stands.
Repeat the entire process for the other rear wheel.

Pro Tips for a Flawless 2020 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Beyond the basic steps, these insights from experienced technicians will help you achieve the best results.

Cleanliness is Key: Brake dust is abrasive and can cause issues. Keep everything as clean as possible. Use brake cleaner generously on new rotors.
Inspect Other Components: While you’re in there, check the condition of your brake lines for cracks or leaks, and inspect the caliper boots for tears. This is part of a thorough 2020 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement care guide.
Brake Fluid Check: After compressing the pistons, check your brake fluid reservoir. Top it off if needed, but ensure it doesn’t overflow. Use the correct DOT-rated fluid for your Accord (usually DOT3 or DOT4).
Don’t Forget the Hardware: Always replace the brake hardware clips. They are crucial for proper pad movement and preventing noise.
Torque Specs Matter: Over-tightening can strip threads or warp components; under-tightening can lead to parts falling off. Use a torque wrench for all critical fasteners.
Sustainable Disposal: Take your old pads and rotors to a local auto parts store or recycling center. Many places will accept them for free. This is a simple step towards an eco-friendly 2020 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement.

Post-Replacement Care and Bedding-In: Ensuring Longevity and Performance

Your job isn’t done once the wheels are back on. Proper break-in, or “bedding-in,” is crucial for the longevity and performance of your new pads and rotors.

The Critical Bedding-In Procedure

Bedding-in helps transfer a thin layer of pad material onto the rotor, optimizing friction and preventing premature wear or noise.

Pump the Brake Pedal: Before starting the engine, pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm. This seats the caliper pistons against the new pads.
Initial Gentle Driving: Drive your Accord at moderate speeds (20-30 mph) for a few miles, applying light to moderate pressure to the brakes. Avoid hard stops.
Series of Stops: Find a safe, open road. Accelerate to about 35 mph and apply moderate braking pressure, slowing down to about 5 mph. Do not come to a complete stop. Repeat this 5-6 times, allowing a minute or two between stops for the brakes to cool slightly.
Higher Speed Stops: Accelerate to about 50 mph and apply firm, but not aggressive, braking pressure, slowing to about 10 mph. Again, do not come to a complete stop. Repeat this 2-3 times, allowing more time for cooling between stops.
Cool Down: Drive normally for 10-15 minutes without heavy braking to allow the brakes to cool completely.

During the bedding-in process, avoid hard braking, sudden stops, and prolonged braking (like riding the brakes downhill). This ensures even material transfer and prevents glazing of the pads.

Ongoing Maintenance for Your New Brakes

Even after replacement, a little attention goes a long way.

Regular Inspections: Periodically check your brake pads for wear and your rotors for signs of grooving or rust.
Brake Fluid Checks: Monitor your brake fluid level and condition. Brake fluid should be flushed and replaced every few years according to Honda’s recommendations.
Listen for Warnings: Pay attention to any new noises or changes in brake feel. Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

Troubleshooting Common Problems After Your Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Even with the best practices, sometimes issues can arise. Here are solutions to common problems after a 2020 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement.

Squealing or Squeaking Brakes

This is often the most common complaint.

Insufficient Lubrication: Ensure enough high-temp brake grease was applied to the back of the pads and the caliper slide pins.
Missing Shims/Hardware: Verify all anti-rattle clips and shims are correctly installed.
Improper Bedding-In: The pads might not have properly bedded. Re-perform the bedding-in procedure carefully.
Cheap Pads: Sometimes, lower-quality pads are simply noisy. Consider ceramic pads for quiet operation.

Spongy Brake Pedal

A soft, mushy pedal usually points to air in the brake lines.

Air in Lines: While not typically necessary for just pads, if a brake line was loosened or the reservoir ran dry, air might have entered the system. You’ll need to bleed the brake system.
Caliper Piston Not Fully Seated: Re-pump the pedal multiple times to ensure the piston is fully extended and seated against the pads.

Vibrations or Pulsations

If you feel vibrations through the pedal or steering wheel after replacement.

Warped Rotors: If you reused old rotors, they might have been warped, or new rotors could have been damaged during installation or improper bedding.
Improper Lug Nut Torque: Unevenly torqued lug nuts can warp rotors. Always use a torque wrench.
Dirty Hub Face: Any debris between the rotor and the hub can cause it to sit unevenly.

If you encounter persistent issues or are unsure, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic. Your safety is paramount.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2020 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Let’s tackle some common queries you might have.

How long do rear brake pads last on a 2020 Honda Accord?

Typically, rear brake pads on a 2020 Honda Accord can last anywhere from 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and the quality of the pads. Aggressive driving or frequent city stops will reduce their lifespan.

Do I need to replace rotors when doing a 2020 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement?

While not always strictly mandatory, it’s highly recommended. Replacing or resurfacing rotors ensures a perfectly flat surface for the new pads to bed into, preventing pulsations, noise, and maximizing pad life. For most DIYers, simply replacing rotors is the easiest and most reliable option.

What’s special about the 2020 Honda Accord’s rear brakes for DIYers?

The main difference is the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). You cannot simply compress the caliper piston with a C-clamp. You *must* use a compatible OBD-II scan tool to electronically retract the EPB motor before manually compressing the piston. Failing to do so can damage the EPB system.

How do I know what type of brake pads to buy for my Accord?

You’ll need pads specifically designed for the rear of a 2020 Honda Accord. Common types are ceramic (quiet, low dust) and semi-metallic (good performance, can be noisier). Check your owner’s manual or a reputable auto parts store for recommended options.

Is a 2020 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement a beginner-friendly DIY job?

It’s moderately challenging due to the Electronic Parking Brake system requiring a special scan tool. If you have basic mechanical skills, the right tools (especially the EPB tool), and follow instructions carefully, it’s certainly doable. If you’re completely new to automotive work, consider watching several video guides or having an experienced friend assist.

There you have it, folks! A complete walkthrough for your 2020 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement. This isn’t just about saving money; it’s about understanding your vehicle, building confidence, and ensuring your safety on every journey.

Remember, attention to detail, adherence to torque specifications, and proper bedding-in are the hallmarks of a successful brake job. Take your time, prioritize safety, and you’ll be rolling with smooth, responsive stops in no time. Stay safe, stay confident, and keep those wheels turning!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.